St. Paul, MN – Consumers across Minnesota are being urged to check their freezers after a major frozen shrimp recall due to potential radioactive contamination.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Southwind Foods, LLC of Carson, California, is voluntarily recalling several frozen shrimp products distributed between July 17 and August 8 due to possible Cesium-137 contamination. Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope that can pose long-term health risks if consumed repeatedly over time.
The recalled shrimp products were sold under multiple brand names including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street. They were distributed to stores and wholesalers in nine states, including Minnesota.
In Minnesota, affected shrimp products were available at Kroger stores under the Great American brand, Mariano’s under the Sand Bar brand, and Cub Grocery Stores under the Arctic Shores brand.
While no illnesses have been reported, the FDA has launched an investigation into the source of contamination, which appears linked to products processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) of Indonesia. The agency warns that long-term exposure to Cs-137 can increase the risk of cancer due to its effects on cellular DNA.
Minnesota consumers are advised not to consume any of the listed frozen shrimp items. Affected products include various sizes and types of raw and cooked shrimp in 6-ounce to 2-pound packages. Details on UPC codes, lot numbers, and item descriptions are available on the FDA’s website.
Customers who purchased the affected shrimp can return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of them safely. Questions can be directed to Southwind Foods at 1-323-262-8222, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pacific Time.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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